Epic Journey Across America!

I captured the magic of the full moon through the telescope tonight!

Isn't it amazing how the universe reveals its wonders when we take a closer look? This lunar beauty never ceases to mesmerize me.

Just wrapped up an incredible hike in Fletcher Canyon! This 4-mile round trip took me 4 hours, with sections of medium difficulty that were totally worth it. Gaining an elevation of 991 ft and was rewarded with breathtaking views of a river bed and an impressive gorge at the end.

Nature never ceases to amaze!

Spain Launches Its First Military Satellite: A Leap Forward in Space Technology*

On January 30th, Spain marked a historic milestone with the successful launch of its first military satellite, SPAINSAT NG 1. The satellite was launched from Cape Canaveral aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket and is now positioned in geostationary orbit, approximately 35,786 kilometers above Earth—nearly three times the planet's diameter.

Operated by the Spanish company Hisdesat, SPAINSAT NG 1 is hailed as the most advanced satellite in Spain and the first in Europe equipped with cutting-edge technology antennas. This innovation includes X-band antennas and beam-hopping technology, enabling the satellite to redirect electronic signals without physical movement. Additionally, it boasts the ability to detect and neutralize interference on Earth, ensuring secure communications for Spanish military forces and NATO.

The satellite is expected to remain operational until 2037, providing reliable and secure communication capabilities. Looking ahead, its twin satellite, SPAINSAT NG II, is scheduled for launch around September or October 2025. Together, these satellites will cover two-thirds of the planet, securing communications from Denmark to Singapore.

This achievement underscores Spain's growing presence in the space sector and its commitment to advancing technological innovation.

Did you know that the Milky Way has over 150 globular clusters?

One of the most striking globular clusters in our Milky Way is Messier 3 (M3) I came across an amazing image of the globular cluster M3 taken with the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope. For comparison, I share a photo that I have taken through the DWARF II.

Did you know that M3 is a collection of several thousand to millions of stars, all gravitationally bound?

It's approximately 34,000 light-years distant and contains around 500,000 stars!

You can spot it high above the disk of the Milky Way after sunset and before sunrise. Take a look with binoculars or a telescope and see if you can spot T Cor Bor (which is about to go nova, one of these days!)

A second amazing day presenting at Career Day to a 5 to 8 K group of enthusiastic kids who are eager to explore the mysteries of living on the Moon or Mars!

Their curiosity and insightful questions about space exploration and interplanetary living.

It's incredible to see the next generation so excited about the possibilities beyond our world.

Keep reaching for the stars, young explorers!

#SpaceExploration #MarsColonization #MoonMission #FutureAstronauts #careerdayfun

Excited to support the Summer Challenge at Indian Springs Library! Today, I got to explore the wonders of our closest star, the Sun, using my trusty telescope.

I love observing the Sun's surface and its incredible features. From sunspots to solar flares, it's a reminder of the vast and dynamic universe we’re a part of.

Today, I had going to Kizuna Japanese Spring Festival: Haru Matsuri, and it was absolutely amazing! 🌸

It was a true journey into Japanese culture, filled with incredible arts, activities, and performances. I shared a special moment with my mom during the Japanese Tea Ceremony, marveling at the meticulous beauty of this tradition. I also discovered something new—the refreshing ice yuzu tea, which I absolutely loved trying.

I love the calligraphic and origami, ikebana, taiko drumming, koto music, yosakoi dancing, martial arts, delicious food.

It was a day brimming with culture and joy!

First Hike of the Year: Pinto Valley Loop at Lake Mead

Today, we embarked on our first hike of the year through the stunning Pinto Valley Loop at Lake Mead.

The weather was perfect, staying no hotter than 63°F, which made the experience even more enjoyable.

The landscape was breathtaking, with beautiful mountains and incredible colors surrounding us. The trail was adorned with pretty cactus and intriguing plants with white leaves and tiny red fruits. Although the path wasn't always easy to distinguish, often following a riverbed, the adventure was well worth it.

While the elevation wasn't excessive, it was definitely more noticeable than it seemed at first glance. It took me 7 hours and 35 minutes to complete the hike, but every moment was rewarding.

Feeling grateful for the beauty of nature and excited for more adventures this year!

Excited to celebrate Spring the Japanese way at the annual Japanese Spring Festival hosted by Kizuna! A day filled with cultural delights - from Japanese Tea Ceremonies to Kimono fashion, Origami, Calligraphy, Ikebana, traditional music and dance, and the delicious food.

I had an amazing time presenting and sharing the wonders of our solar system through a solar telescope at the Bunkerville Library today!

As part of the Summer Challenge Program, we explored the sun's surface, learned about solar flares, and discovered how our incredible star impacts our everyday lives.

It was fantastic to see both kids and adults so engaged and enthusiastic about astronomy. Your curiosity and questions made the event truly special!

Thank you to everyone who came out and participated. Don’t forget to keep looking up and stay curious. The universe has so much to offer!